The police have announced checks on the new ban on weapons and knives at Christmas markets in Saxony. According to the Ministry of the Interior, visitors must expect that their bags and backpacks will be checked and that they themselves may be searched without cause. Prohibited items would be confiscated. In addition to possible criminal proceedings, fines of up to 10,000 euros are possible. Purchased knives must be transported in their original packaging.
The ban applies to knives of all kinds, including pocket knives. Exceptions apply to certain tradespeople and rescue and emergency services, among others. As is the case every year, the measures taken by the police are essentially based on an assessment by the Federal Criminal Police Office (BKA). "According to this, there are currently no findings regarding a specific threat to Christmas markets and Christmas-related events, meaning that these can take place as planned."
The measures are part of the new Weapons Act to improve internal security. After the law came into force at the end of October following its adoption in the Bundestag, it has now been implemented in an ordinance by the Saxon cabinet. Police officers are authorized to carry out random checks without cause. This applies in particular to public events such as markets, trade fairs, sporting events or visits to cinemas and nightclubs.
